TEENAGERS who think there's nothing to do in Newport are invited along to try skateboarding for free this half-term.

John Cattle's Skate Club said they were aware of recent reports of anti-social behaviour in the town and hope youngsters will take up the opportunity to get involved in the free sessions.

Skater John Cattle will be showing off his skills in St Thomas's Square, Newport, between 12 noon and 3pm on Saturday, ahead of the new sessions.

The Newport Skate Project was established as part of Newport and Carisbrooke Parish Council's commitment to tackling some of the recent issues of anti-social behaviour.

Linking with the aims of Shaping Newport, the provision of these sessions, which will take place indoors at the Victoria Pavilion, will give young people an opportunity to try skateboarding.

John said: "I'm looking forward to getting some new people skating, who don't already come to our skate club. These sessions are completely free, so a great chance for teenagers to come and have a go.

"We provide all the equipment, there is no need to book, so just turn up and have some fun — you'll be skating within the hour."

Zoe Thompson, Skate Club manager, said: "It is great that the parish council and Isle of Wight Council through Shaping Newport are so supportive of skateboarding. We get a lot of support for what we do.

"We were aware of the reports of anti-social behaviour, and a lot of the feedback was in regards to there being a lack of things for young people to do, particularly during the winter months, so we hope lots of people will take this opportunity."

The free hour-long sessions are for those aged 12 to 16 and take place at Victoria Recreation Ground on Monday (18) at 2pm, Tuesday (19) at 3pm and Friday (22) at 1pm and again at 3pm.